Family fun and an all-you-can-eat pizza buffet and salad bar are coming soon to Burleson and Hudson Oaks. Two new locations for Gatti’s Family Entertainment Center are expected to open sometime in late spring or early summer of 2023, depending on construction and potential supply chain issues.
Kirk Jefferies, who owns both locations, told What Now Dallas they will close on the land for the Hudson Oaks Gatti’s FEC later this month and plan to start construction in November. “Right now, it’s a dirt lot. We have to build it,” Jefferies said. “It’s a pretty large structure. We’ve already ordered all the video games for it, which will be about 35 video games in the back.”
Both locations are similar in concept, menu, and in size at around 12,500-square-feet. Other games will include Skee-Ball and Pop-A-Shot basketball. Tickets will be given to trade for prizes.
A drive-thru window for to-go orders plus indoor seating for 200 to 300 people will be available, as well as space for birthday parties and other events. Gatti’s FEC will have an all-you-can-eat pizza buffet and salad bar. “You can order the buffet, and you tell us what kind of pizza you want, and we’ll make it for you.”
Jefferies grew up eating Mr. Gatti’s, so he is excited about being a part of the expansion. “I talked to Jim Phillips, the owner, and had a really good talk with him. I felt great about it.”
James Eure opened the pizza concept as The Pizza Place in Stephenville in 1964, according to the company website. Eure began serving pizzas as Mr. Gatti’s after moving to Austin in 1969. Jefferies appreciates the vision that Phillip, president and CEO, has for the brand, which has had franchise locations shutter their doors as the years have gone by. “Jim bought the company and is taking it to new heights.”
Jefferies is also a Jason’s Deli franchisee and a Chicken Express franchisee, and he enjoys the Gatti’s product. “I like the concept. The family-friendly aspect is just great,” he said. “I’m really excited about being a part of it.”
Jefferies believes the Burleson location at 1521 SW Wilshire Blvd. might open shortly before the Hudson Oaks location at 990 Cinema Dr. He is working to get permitting to sell beer and wine at both locations.
